Tahoe City Weddings

Including West Shore Weddings

Lake Tahoe weddings create a special kind of magic. Every season offers something special, from icicles in trees, glorious floral color burst in alpine meadows and the shimmer of autumn’s golden aspen leaves. Tahoe City weddings have all that and more. The backdrop for your nuptials can vary. It could easily be the shimmering blue lake water, a mountainous ski resort, beside the Truckee River or at an historic venue.

Tahoe City weddings work for simple elopements or grand affairs. Slip into a chapel for an intimate wedding, or book the entire Granlibakken Lodge for family and friends to enjoy the full Lake Tahoe experience – complete with its own ski lift and spa. Rustic lakeshore charm for perfect for a woodsy wedding can also be found at the Sunnyside Resort. Keeping the ceremony, reception and lodging at the same location typically holds down costs on many Tahoe City weddings.

I Do’s said under a canopy of soaring pines lit by the bright sun or twinkling stars can be found at venues like River Grill. Altars are set facing the flow of the Truckee River as it approaches Lake Tahoe.

Tahoe City Weddings Aren’t New

Lake Tahoe’s history of the mid-19th to early-20th centuries attracts many brides and grooms. Tahoe City weddings at William B. Layton Park, home to the Gatekeeper’s Museum and Marion Steinbach Indian Basket Museum, bring an experience not found anywhere else. Set up a band by the lake and let guests wander through the museums. Historic venues work with their own purveyors from caterers to florists.

Speaking of vacation houses, several rentals allow you to hold your wedding on the lawns. Be sure to check first with your rental agent. Hiring a local wedding coordinator will ensure all details, like getting a marriage license in Placer County, California, are done correctly.

Bluestone Jewelry is an offering of art in three different modalities: jewelry, photography and unique glass works. Situated across the street from Lake Tahoe in the heart of Tahoe City as well as in historical downtown Truckee, the artistry offered at both Bluestones is in appreciation of the immense beauty of the area. Many of the pieces throughout the stores reflect the stunning allure of the area. In addition to glass art, fine photography and new jewelry, Bluestone is also highly experienced at refurbishing antique jewelry sets.

Bluestone Jewelry is an offering of art in three different modalities: jewelry, photography and unique glass works. Situated across the street from Lake Tahoe in the heart of Tahoe City as well as in historical downtown Truckee, the artistry offered at both Bluestones is in appreciation of the immense beauty of the area. Many of the pieces throughout the stores reflect the stunning allure of... read more

Bluestone Jewelry is an offering of art in three different modalities: jewelry, photography and unique... read more

Cedar Crest Cottages is a union of historical heritage with modern chic. A small cluster of eight cabins from 1933, Cedar Crest is newly remodeled, giving guests a stylish and contemporary feel within a forested mountain setting. Located across the street from Lake Tahoe, each of the one-, two- and three-bedroom cabins has the benefit of a private home setting and exclusive beach access with the concierge service of a true local. The cottages are nestled within a beautiful property that adds to a peaceful and welcoming experience with its outdoor fire pit and landscaped surroundings. Both the manager and on-site host are locals who know the area very well.

Cedar Crest Cottages is a union of historical heritage with modern chic. A small cluster of eight cabins from 1933, Cedar Crest is newly remodeled, giving guests a stylish and contemporary feel within a forested mountain setting. Located across the street from Lake Tahoe, each of the one-, two- and three-bedroom cabins has the benefit of a private home setting and exclusive beach access with... read more

Cedar Crest Cottages is a union of historical heritage with modern chic. A small cluster... read more

Granlibakken Tahoe is tucked away in the forested hills framing Lake Tahoe. Located just a few minutes from Tahoe City, Granlibakken is a resort center that invokes the meaning of quaint hospitality while at the same time offering a plethora of options to create the perfect vacation. From a fine dining restaurant that serves culinary art to a conference center that holds annual events such as the Granlibakken's Women's Wellness Weekend, from its own private tiny ski area to a full-service spa complete with yoga classes, Granlibakken Tahoe strives to fill each guest's request. The adjoining ski area has a poma lift and rope tow for guests in the winter and then transfers over to a ropes course area in the summer. There are also tennis courts on property as well as fantastic hiking leaving directly from the resort.

Granlibakken Tahoe is tucked away in the forested hills framing Lake Tahoe. Located just a few minutes from Tahoe City, Granlibakken is a resort center that invokes the meaning of quaint hospitality while at the same time offering a plethora of options to create the perfect vacation. From a fine dining restaurant that serves culinary art to a conference center that holds annual events such... read more

Granlibakken Tahoe is tucked away in the forested hills framing Lake Tahoe. Located just a... read more

With more than 50 years in the vacation rental and real estate market of Tahoe, Hauserman Rental Group is by far the leader in longevity. Their time in the market has given them an incredible amount of knowledge about the area and how to fulfill the needs and wishes of their customers. Although their expertise lies in finding the optimum long- or short-term rental for people visiting the area, they are also exceptionally gifted at connecting buyers with the property that suits them best.

With more than 50 years in the vacation rental and real estate market of Tahoe, Hauserman Rental Group is by far the leader in longevity. Their time in the market has given them an incredible amount of knowledge about the area and how to fulfill the needs and wishes of their customers. Although their expertise lies in finding the optimum long- or short-term rental for... read more

With more than 50 years in the vacation rental and real estate market of Tahoe,... read more

Kandy and Dennis of Mr. D DJ Services pride themselves on creating a memorable customized soundtrack for your wedding day or any event that deserves musical enhancement. They are especially gifted at making their services match exactly what you want, using their passion for music to help you every step of the way in selecting the perfect music for a special occasion. They offer a variety of DJ services including expert sound, music consultation, emcee and dance floor lighting. They also provide officiant services. Kandy will work closely with you to create a fully customized ceremony that celebrates your relationship. Whether you want a traditional or non-traditional service, she'll help craft a memorable, heartfelt experience to share with your family and friends.

Kandy and Dennis of Mr. D DJ Services pride themselves on creating a memorable customized soundtrack for your wedding day or any event that deserves musical enhancement. They are especially gifted at making their services match exactly what you want, using their passion for music to help you every step of the way in selecting the perfect music for a special occasion. They offer a... read more

It is evident the moment one steps into Steve Schmier's Jewelry store that owner Michael Grant and his employees truly love the trade of fine jewelry. In this small, intimate shop, the representatives specialize in creating or finding that unique piece of jewelry for each person. Because of the intimate atmosphere, visitors truly get one-on-one service helping them find jewelry pieces that surpass expectations.

It is evident the moment one steps into Steve Schmier's Jewelry store that owner Michael Grant and his employees truly love the trade of fine jewelry. In this small, intimate shop, the representatives specialize in creating or finding that unique piece of jewelry for each person. Because of the intimate atmosphere, visitors truly get one-on-one service helping them find jewelry pieces that surpass expectations. ... read more

It is evident the moment one steps into Steve Schmier's Jewelry store that owner Michael... read more

Tahoe Sailing Charters is an excellent way to see the beauty of Lake Tahoe powered by Mother Nature. Non-motorized yacht sailing cruises give a serene yet exciting approach to exploring Lake Tahoe. Tahoe Sailing Charters brings the water tours to the next level by providing cocktails and non-alcohol drinks on the cruise. For those looking for a more private experience, Tahoe Sailing Charters offers a motorized catamaran that gives tours of the lake for 12 lucky people. Both vessels are available for parties and get-togethers.

Tahoe Sailing Charters is an excellent way to see the beauty of Lake Tahoe powered by Mother Nature. Non-motorized yacht sailing cruises give a serene yet exciting approach to exploring Lake Tahoe. Tahoe Sailing Charters brings the water tours to the next level by providing cocktails and non-alcohol drinks on the cruise. For those looking for a more private experience, Tahoe Sailing Charters offers a... read more

Tahoe Sailing Charters is an excellent way to see the beauty of Lake Tahoe powered... read more

It’s near impossible to spend any amount of time in the Lake Tahoe region without encountering the photography of Chris Talbot. His images of the lake and its surrounding natural beauty may be found on the walls of hotels (including a large exhibit at the Hyatt Lake Tahoe), restaurants, offices, homes and in gift shops throughout the basin. Besides Tahoe, he’s also spent much of his life traveling the world and has wonderful images from throughout Asia, Eastern Europe and Central America as well as rural Nevada and other stateside locales. Chris excels at real estate, architecture, resort, golf and food photography and has been published in numerous golf, travel and real estate publications. Talbot Photography also shoots portraits and special events around Lake Tahoe, having photographed more than 700 weddings. Chris understands every aspect of photo composition and passes this knowledge on through custom photography tours around Lake Tahoe. He will take you to the most scenic spots and train you in the technical and practical aspects of taking the best photo you can. Whether you’re looking for a wedding photographer, some schooling on your camera skills (and a guide around the lake) or just something beautiful to hang on your wall, check out Talbot Photography.

It’s near impossible to spend any amount of time in the Lake Tahoe region without encountering the photography of Chris Talbot. His images of the lake and its surrounding natural beauty may be found on the walls of hotels (including a large exhibit at the Hyatt Lake Tahoe), restaurants, offices, homes and in gift shops throughout the basin. Besides Tahoe, he’s also spent much of... read more

It’s near impossible to spend any amount of time in the Lake Tahoe region without... read more

George Whittell Jr., heir to one of San Francisco’s largest fortunes, pulled his $50 million (roughly $50 billion in current dollars) out of the stock market just weeks before the crash of 1929. He needed to do something with all that money and started buying up land on Lake Tahoe’s eastern shore, eventually owning almost the entire Nevada shoreline. In 1936 construction began on his "castle in the sky," a lakefront estate that would serve as his summer getaway and tax haven.

Finished in 1939, Thunderbird Lodge was constructed by the finest artisans and craftspeople available. The exteriors were done in stone decorated with metal images of local wildlife, and the interiors were fashioned in the Arts and Crafts style. He had a 600-foot tunnel blasted out of the granite under the property to connect the lodge to a boathouse and serve as a secret exit from the Card Room. Whittell also had a 56-foot mahogany yacht custom-built. With a pair of 1150 hp Allison V-12 engines, the Thunderbird can reach speeds up to 75 mph. It’s still seaworthy and sheltered in the boathouse.

Thunderbird Lodge and its grounds, listed as an Historic Site in the National Register, are now owned by a nonprofit Preservation Society and are open for tours and available for parties, banquets, corporate functions and other special occasions. The grounds – full of lawns, water features, secluded terraces, a lakefront gazebo and beautiful views across the lake – make the Thunderbird a top choice for weddings, receptions and rehearsal dinners. They have an executive chef on-site, and their staff can help coordinate every aspect of your event. The Thunderbird hosts occasional events including a Winemakers’ Dinner series every summer. All tours are guided and are available Tuesday through Saturday from May through October. Reservations are required.

George Whittell Jr., heir to one of San Francisco’s largest fortunes, pulled his $50 million (roughly $50 billion in current dollars) out of the stock market just weeks before the crash of 1929. He needed to do something with all that money and started buying up land on Lake Tahoe’s eastern shore, eventually owning almost the entire Nevada shoreline. In 1936 construction began on his... read more

George Whittell Jr., heir to one of San Francisco’s largest fortunes, pulled his $50 million... read more